Nintendo first showed the Switch 2 on January 16, 2025, and released it on June 5, 2025. The successor to the original Switch brings a larger 1080p screen, 256 GB of internal storage, updated Joy-Con controllers and new social features. It also plays many—but not all—original Switch games. The launch prices Nintendo announced for the United States were $449.99 for the console and $499.99 for a Mario Kart World bundle.
When was Nintendo Switch 2 unveiled, and when did it launch?
Nintendo revealed the Switch 2 on January 16, 2025, describing it as the successor to Nintendo Switch. The company said it would play games made for Switch 2 as well as compatible physical and digital Switch games. Nintendo later announced April 2, 2025, for a Nintendo Direct focused on the system. The console launched on June 5, 2025.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Nintendo Switch 2 System | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy-Con - Handheld Gaming Console | $323.72 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle with Bonus HDMI Cable & Screen Cleaning Cloth | $617.98 | Buy on Amazon |
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In the first four days after release, Nintendo reported selling more than 3.5 million Switch 2 units worldwide. Nintendo said that was the highest global first-four-day sales level for any of its hardware.
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Nintendo’s launch announcement listed U.S. suggested retail prices of $449.99 for the console and $499.99 for a Mario Kart World bundle. The bundle included a download code for the game. Those are launch-announcement prices, not a statement of current retail pricing.
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
What changed in the Switch 2 hardware?
The biggest changes are the larger, higher-resolution built-in display, more internal storage, faster processing and redesigned controllers. Switch 2 can also output up to 4K resolution and 120 frames per second on a TV when the game and television support those settings; that maximum is not guaranteed in every game or setup.
| Feature | Switch 2 details |
|---|---|
| Built-in screen | 7.9-inch LCD with 1080p resolution |
| Internal storage | 256 GB |
| Processing | Improved CPU and GPU performance compared with the original Switch |
| Joy-Con 2 | Attach magnetically and can function as mouse-like controllers when slid across a surface |
| TV output | Up to 4K resolution and 120 fps when supported by the game and TV |
| Other design changes | Freely adjustable stand, a second USB-C port for tabletop charging, faster loading and clearer spatial 3D audio |
What are GameChat and GameShare?
GameChat
Press the C Button on the right Joy-Con 2 to open GameChat. Nintendo says the built-in microphone supports voice chat with up to 12 people. Up to four friends can share their screens, and video chat is possible with a compatible USB-C camera. The Nintendo Switch 2 camera is sold separately. GameChat was free without a Nintendo Switch Online membership through March 2026; a membership is required from April 2026 onward.
GameShare
GameShare lets a player invite others to temporarily play supported games locally. In supported scenarios, recipients can include someone using an original Nintendo Switch. The feature’s reach depends on whether a particular game supports it.
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Can you play original Switch games on Switch 2?
Many physical and digital Nintendo Switch games are compatible with Switch 2. However, Nintendo warns that some titles are unsupported or may not work fully because the systems’ hardware differs. Compatibility is therefore game-specific; owning a Switch game does not guarantee that every feature will work on the new console.
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
Some compatible games receive free updates, while others have paid Switch 2 Edition upgrades. Existing Switch Joy-Con and Pro Controllers can pair wirelessly with Switch 2. The original Switch dock, however, cannot be used with the new system.
Do you need a new microSD card?
For expandable game storage, Switch 2 requires a microSD Express card. Conventional microSD cards used with the original Switch are not compatible for Switch 2 game storage. If you plan to add storage, check that the card is explicitly microSD Express rather than assuming an old card will transfer.
Which games and services did Nintendo highlight?
Nintendo games and upgraded editions
Nintendo highlighted Mario Kart World, a racing game with an interconnected world, 24-driver races and Knockout Tour, alongside Donkey Kong Bananza, a Switch 2-exclusive 3D action platformer. It also presented Switch 2 Edition upgrades for Super Mario Party Jamboree, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. These are among the titles Nintendo called out for the system; that does not mean every highlighted game was available on launch day.
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Nintendo named partner titles including Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Elden Ring Tarnished Edition, Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut, Hades II and Borderlands 4, as well as sports games. Being named as a partner title does not by itself establish a release date or launch-day availability.
Rank #3
- 【Ultimate Nintendo Switch 2 Bundle – Ready to Play】Includes the complete Nintendo Switch 2 console and a full-game download of Mario Kart World, so you can start racing right out of the box. Perfect for gamers of all ages and playstyles.
- 【Next-Gen Hybrid Gaming with Stunning Visuals】Experience a vivid 7.9‑inch 1080p LCD touchscreen with HDR support, and enjoy 4K TV output at up to 60 fps when docked — for immersive gameplay at home or on the go.
- 【Versatile 3 Play Modes】Seamlessly switch between Handheld, Tabletop, and TV modes — all featuring intuitive controls and smooth performance, wherever you choose to play.
- 【Enhanced Social Gaming with GameChat & Multiplayer】Connect with friends locally, enjoy online multiplayer with up to 24 players, and use voice chat via GameChat (internet connection and Nintendo Switch Online membership required after trial period).
- 【Powerful Storage & Joy‑Con 2 Controllers】Includes 256 GB internal storage (expandable with microSD), magnetic Joy‑Con 2 controllers, docking station, HDMI cable, AC adapter, grip, and straps — everything you need for the ultimate gaming setup.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members receive access to Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics. Nintendo listed F-Zero GX, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and SOULCALIBUR II for the initial lineup.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should you consider before buying?
For a Switch owner, the decision depends on what the new system adds to the way you play, and what you would need to buy alongside it.
- Display and performance: The 7.9-inch 1080p screen, faster processing and supported high-resolution TV output are the central hardware changes.
- Games: Consider whether you want Switch 2 exclusives or paid Switch 2 Edition upgrades, and check compatibility for the specific original Switch games you play.
- Storage: If internal capacity is not enough, budget for a microSD Express card; an ordinary microSD card is not a substitute.
- Communication: GameChat adds voice, screen sharing and optional camera video, but requires Nintendo Switch Online membership after March 2026.
- Accessories: A compatible USB-C camera is optional for video chat, and the original Switch dock does not carry over.
Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa described the system as “the next step in at-home gaming that can be taken on the go based on eight years of play and discovery that began with Nintendo Switch.”
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
